Secret Rule #2: Title, Subtitle & Book Description
Updated: Oct 14
Secret Rule #2: Title, Subtitle & Book Description answers a question many authors overlook: how do your title, subtitle, and book description help readers find and choose your book? Together with the rest of your Amazon page, they tell readers what your book is and why they should open it.
A beautiful or abstract title can be memorable, but it often does not tell a stranger what the book is about, and it is harder to market on its own. That is why the subtitle, the description, and the rest of your Amazon listing have to do so much of the work.
In this article, you will get a clear answer first, then the solution step by step, and then an industry hack that makes your path a little easier and less encumbered by hurdles.
Questions and Answers
Q: What should my subtitle include?
A: At least one keyword your readers actually search for, plus a clear idea of what the book will do for them.
Q: Should my short description talk about me, the author?
A: No. Leave author information for your bio. The short description should be about the reader and what they will find inside.
Q: What else on my Amazon page helps sell the book?
A: Your whole listing works together: the full book description, A+ Content (the images and comparison charts that appear below the description), your "Look Inside" sample, and your series page if your book is part of a series.
The Solution
Keep your title short and memorable.
Add a subtitle that includes a searched keyword.
Make the subtitle explain the benefit or who the book is for.
Keep your short description brief.
Include several keywords naturally in the short description.
Invite readers to find their answers inside the book.
Write a full book description that opens with a hook and uses short, easy-to-scan paragraphs.
Add A+ Content with images that show readers what they will get from the book.
If your book is part of a series, set up the series page so readers can find every book.
The Industry Hack
Write your short description as a question your reader is already asking, followed by the promise of an answer. For example: "Wondering why your message isn't reaching people? Inside, you'll find a clear way forward." Questions grab attention, and the promise makes readers want to look inside.
Keywords for Amazon and YouTube
book title and subtitle, how to write a subtitle, book description, book blurb tips, Amazon A+ Content, Amazon book listing, title that sells
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